07/22/2026
Property Spotlight:
Brandt Woods - 25297 H Drive North, Marshall, MI 49068
Brandt Woods was donated in 1963 to the Calhoun Conservation District by Charles Brandt, a well-known local naturalist and conservationist. During the 1950’s, after many conversations with Michigan State University colleagues and friend Burrell (B.E.) Henry, Calhoun County Agricultural Director, Mr. Brandt laid the groundwork to deed his woodland in perpetuity for conservation studies. Mr. Brandt retained a life lease on his property to manage as he wished, during his lifetime.
This forest serves as a valuable public resource offering opportunities for wildlife observation, hiking, environmental education and community engagement. The Conservation District recognizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing this property, not only for recreation, but also as a model of sustainable forest management. The property has been environmentally verified through the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program for Forests, Wetlands and Habitat. In 2009, the Calhoun Conservation District conducted a project to reconnect Rice Creek’s floodplains. This included removing berms along the North Branch of Rice Creek and reconnecting 17 acres of floodplains on the property. This project is key to reduce downstream flooding and sedimentation within Rice Creek by slowing down water during high flows and to reduce long term dredging. Then, in 2025, the CCD replaced the roof to the pavilion at the property, and we are planning for future programming for the public at Brandt Woods.
This property is enrolled in the Hunting Access Program for Spring Turkey Season Only (mid-April through May). From August to January, the property is closed to the public to all uses. All other times of year the property is open for hiking, wildlife viewing and foraging. There are an array of trails, a pavilion and 100 acres of dense hardwood forest to explore.
https://www.calhouncd.org/brandt-woods
